Zoo Book: The Evolution of Wildlife Conservation Centers

Today's zoo is a laboratory of species preservation. In May 1984, a horse gave birth to a zebra at the Louisville Zoo; later, bongo embryos were flown from Los Angeles to Cincinnati and implanted in an eland that produced healthy bongo babies. The Arabian oryx, extinct in the wild, has been bred in captivity and returned to its native habitat. In cooperation with the American Zoo and Aquarium Association (AZA), Koebner ( Forgotten Animals ) here surveys the modern zoo, its goals and its achievements. After a brief history of zoos, menageries and traveling shows, she describes specific zoos and their specialities. She takes us inside, introducing zoo personnel and their duties and profiling several directors. Koebner discusses zoo design, the AZA's Species Survival Plan and new techniques for reproduction. Finally, she looks at field scientists and reintroduction in the wild. Accompanied by stunning color photos, this book is important reading for zoo aficionados. (June)